Split Rock Lighthouse and Gallery Wrap

I am beyond thrilled that a client ordered a 16 x 24 Gallery Wrap of my photograph of Split Rock Lighthouse (located in Two Harbors, MN).  They will be giving this as a Christmas gift.  I just can't believe that my print will be hanging in someone's house!

Winter Family Portraits {Blaine Family Photographer}

Think it's impossible to get good great outdoor family portraits? Think again! The "K" family was spectacular to work with and we achieved family portrait greatness this weekend. A fresh blanket of snow made for some pretty awesome backdrops. It did help that the temperature was in the 20's and I was wearing my under armor!

An Old Sleigh, Christmas Photos and Uncooperative Children

This is why I dread taking our Christmas pictures or any family portrait of my own children. They cry. I yell. They don't smile. They run the other way. Next year I resolve to find someone else to take pictures of our family.

But we did end up with this one...

 

Kim & Jamie {E-Session}

Kim and Jamie used to date in high school. And like most high school romances they broke up and went their separate ways. Fast forward to a few years ago. Kim was back in her home town with family at a local establishment and Jamie was there with friends. A chance meeting led to dates which led to an engagement. I am looking forward to photographing their wedding next September!

Busy as a Bee!

I've actually been busying shooting seniors and families this fall!  When it rains... it pours!
I did make a purchase today!  I bought a new (used) 50 mm 1.4 lens.  For those that know this lens... you can appreciate why I'm so excited.  For those of you who really don't know the different kinds of lenses, this lens gives you such wonderful depth of field and it's sharp!  See below for an example. 

{Issac} 9 Months

Weekend at the Lake

I admit... I don't post as often as I should.  But... maybe since I upgraded my camera I will be posting MORE!  This camera ROCKS!

Last weekend we went up to the lake and enjoyed a great weekend of nice weather and great friends.  I got a chance to try out my new camera and I LOVE IT!

Just had to post this one as well.  Found this picture of my darling model from a couple of summers ago.  She is also my kid's babysitter.  You will be seeing more of her as she will be modeling for me in a couple of days.

New Backgrounds!

I've added to my background collection!
I now have a solid black, brown, blue and gray.  I was so excited to try them that I made my kids pose for me.  "The Girl" didn't sit still very well, but "The Boy" did an awesome job!

~~~~~~ Kiersten ~~~~~~

Kiersten, her husband, and son came over to take some maternity and family photos the other night.  They were great to work with and she was one of the cutest pregnant woman I have seen!  Baby "K" is due in 4 weeks and I can't wait to do their newborn session!

A Look Back at 2009

2009 was a busy year for me.  Not only with my marketing business, but photography as well!  Photo shoots have been starting to pick up and I LOVE IT!

So... I will post a year in review of my photography.

April 2009 - Baby!  Isn't she the cutest?

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May 2009 - My First Senior Shoot

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June 2009 - Baby!

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July 2009 - Maternity!
This is my sister who had her baby in September.
We took these pics on the family farm. 
Great location with tall grass, old buildings and country charm.

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August 2009 - Rainy Lake!
We took a much needed vacation in August.  We joined another couple on a houseboat for a week on Rainy Lake.  Unfortunately, the weather was not the best.  Lots of rain, overcast skies and chilly temps.  We did make the best of it by putting on our rain gear and playing croquet and fishing.

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September 2009 - My baby girl!
Well, not such a baby anymore!  Izzy is now 2 and quite
the animated little girl.  She just loves to laugh and smile! 
Don't get me wrong... there is still plenty of whining and crying!

My First Wedding!

Yes... I committed to doing a wedding.  Our good friends Mary and Joe tied the knot in September and yes... the guys wore kilts.  The ceremony was beautiful as was the bride.  A great time was had by all!

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November 2009 - My Lights!

This is my neighbor girl who was kind enough to model for me
as I was trying out my new studio lights.  I can now shoot indoors during these cold Minnesota winters!

 

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December 2009 - Family

Gotta love neighbors! Aren't they a cute family?!?!